MINNEAPOLIS - Valspar Corporation has announced that Joel C. Hart, vice-president of Automotive and International, will retire on Jan. 31st 2006.

Hart has been a part of the automotive refinish industry for 31 years and has held many positions during his long career.

Initially with PPG Industries, Hart held several positions in the United States, Mexico and Europe. He was president PPG Industries Mexico and director of planning and development for the coatings and resins group. His last position at PPG was managing director of automotive refinishes international.

Hart joined Valspar Corporation in 1995 after the acquisition of Sunbelt Coatings as vice-president of Auto Refinish. Taking on additional international responsibilities, he acquired House of Kolor as well as DeBeer automotive finishes. Under Hart's leadership, Valspar Refinish has grown and operates in over 90 countries worldwide.

Hart and his wife Pamela will continue to make their home in Trophy Club, TX.

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